Alcoholic compositions with improved properties and methods for evaluating interaction of the compositions with surfaces

Abstract

A method is provided for measuring the interaction of a disinfecting composition with a floor wax. The method include coating a surface with floor wax, allowing the coating to dry, applying a selected amount of disinfecting composition to the coated surface, and measuring, after a pre-determined amount of time, the tack of the surface, by using a controlled force measurement inverted probe machine. A detectable amount of tack indicates that the disinfecting composition has interacted with the floor wax. Alternatively, any tacky residue on the dried product surface may be sampled and analyzed by Fourier transform spectroscopy. Absorption at a wavelength associated with the floor wax indicates that the product has interacted with the floor wax. A foamable disinfecting composition having reduced interaction with floor wax is also provided.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD[0001]Embodiments of the present invention provide methods for evaluating the interaction of disinfecting compositions with surfaces upon which the compositions may be dripped or splashed. Embodiments of the present invention provide alcoholic disinfecting compositions with reduced interaction with floor wax.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]Alcoholic disinfectants have been shown to be efficacious broad-spectrum antimicrobial products, and are widely used in healthcare settings and many other public, high traffic areas. Foam cleaning products are popular, in part because they are easier to spread on surfaces. Disinfectants are often dispensed from wall-mounted dispensers, and are used in many locations that have waxed flooring.[0003]If the product drips or splashes onto the floor, sticky spots may result, that attract dust and grime. Some alcohol-based disinfection products may contain tacky polymers or other tacky ingredients that remain on the floor where the produc...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

This invention provides a foamable disinfecting composition that includes at least 40% alcohol, a foaming surfactant, and 0.4 to 5% glycerin. Compared to a composition without glycerin, this composition interacts less with floor wax.

Problems solved by technology

If the product drips or splashes onto the floor, sticky spots may result, that attract dust and grime.

Some alcohol-based disinfection products may contain tacky polymers or other tacky ingredients that remain on the floor where the product has dripped, after the alcohol has evaporated.

Unfortunately, the sticky spots can attract dirt, which can be unsanitary and unsightly, and also can be difficult to remove with normal floor cleaning apparatus and products.